They're coming back for the food, things like a really nicely cooked pork chop, thick and juicy and serviced with chorizo, apples and a tangy mustard sauce. The lasagnette is a flattened lasagna layered with cheeses, a bright marinara and roasted vegetables. Even the Cat Snack, a plate with cashews, pickled onions and chilies, and Castelvetrano olives, which is pretty much the only thing available between 4 and 5 PM when the kitchen turns over, is above average. Cocktails play with classic ingredients but take on a personality of their own, especially the Manhattan-esque Halflight made with fig-infused bourbon and blood orange bitters. They have to be impressive with Bar Keeper right across the street.
And just as the owners suggested, the past is not forgotten here, and not just by name. There's a corner dedicated to the original Black Cat Tavern, which stood as the epicenter of gay activism in the 60s when police raided the pub and arrested its patrons. That moved resulted in protests, which resulted in more police brutality and arrests. It's not as controversial now, but still honored - with better wine, craft brews and artisanal spirits. Check out our mini slide show for a few sights and bites. Meow.
